Buffalo Chicken Dip for Parties

Name: Buffalo Chicken Dip for Parties
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank's RedHot); 1/2 cup ranch dressing; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional); 1/4 cup sliced green onions (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Home Cooking Favorites

I can't resist a good Buffalo Chicken Dip, and this recipe is my go-to for any gathering. It’s creamy, spicy, and full of flavor, making it such a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're hosting a party or just snacking with friends, this dip checks all the boxes. I love how straightforward the preparation is, and the ingredients come together beautifully to create a rich and satisfying dip. Serve it with chips or veggies, and watch how quickly it disappears!

Created by

Elara Whitfield

Last updated on 2026-01-20T03:46:11.164Z

I never knew how much I loved Buffalo Chicken Dip until I tried making it myself. The combination of creamy cheese, tangy hot sauce, and tender chicken is simply irresistible. I’ve experimented with various methods, but the key is using room temperature cream cheese to achieve that silky texture.

During one gathering, I served this dip in a slow cooker, allowing it to maintain warmth throughout the night. The guests could not get enough, and I had to share this recipe with everyone. A drizzle of ranch dressing right on top before serving adds an extra layer of flavor that I absolutely recommend!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Spicy kick balanced with creamy cheese
Easily made ahead for hassle-free entertaining
Customizable with your favorite hot sauce

Perfecting Your Ingredients

The quality of the ingredients you choose makes a significant difference in Buffalo Chicken Dip. Using freshly shredded rotisserie chicken provides moistness and flavor that pre-packaged chicken cannot match. Additionally, opt for full-fat cream cheese for a richer, creamier texture. The cream cheese should be softened to room temperature, ensuring it blends seamlessly with the other ingredients, resulting in a dip that's both smooth and velvety.

Hot sauce is the backbone of this dip, and selecting one that matches your heat preference is crucial. Frank's RedHot is a classic, but feel free to experiment with other brands or even homemade sauces for a unique twist. If you're looking to cut down on the heat, consider blending hotter sauces with milder ones, allowing you to customize the spiciness to your liking.

Baking Tips for the Perfect Texture

When baking your buffalo chicken dip, keep an eye on the time and temperature to avoid overcooking. The dip should bake at 350°F (175°C) until the edges are golden and bubbling, which typically takes about 20 minutes. Watch for a slight browning on top, as this adds an appealing texture and hints at the flavor development inside.

If you find the dip is bubbling but the top isn’t browning after the recommended time, a quick broil for 1-2 minutes can help achieve that golden finish. Just be careful to not walk away during this step, as it can burn rapidly. Allowing it to cool slightly before serving can help set the dip, making it easier for scooping.

Serving and Storage Recommendations

Buffalo Chicken Dip is best enjoyed warm and can be paired with tortilla chips, celery sticks, or carrot sticks for a fresh crunch. For an elevated serving option, consider using mini bread bowls or pita chips. I often prepare a variety of dippers to cater to different guests' preferences, ensuring everyone has something to enjoy alongside the dip.

If you have leftovers, allow the dip to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheating is best done in the oven to restore the original creamy texture, but you can use the microwave for convenience—just stir well and heat in short intervals, ensuring even warming.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for an unforgettable dip:

Ingredients

2 cups shredded cooked chicken
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank's RedHot)
1/2 cup ranch dressing
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
1/4 cup sliced green onions (for garnish)

Ensure all your ingredients are ready before starting.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your dip:

Preheat and Combine

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, hot sauce, and ranch dressing. Mix well until smooth and creamy.

Add Chicken and Cheese

Fold in the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, and blue cheese if using. Mix until all components are evenly combined.

Bake the Dip

Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven, let it cool slightly, and then garnish with sliced green onions. Serve warm with tortilla chips or veggie sticks.

Enjoy your delicious Buffalo Chicken Dip!

Pro Tips

Feel free to adjust the amount of hot sauce based on your spice tolerance. This dip can also be reheated easily in a microwave if you have leftovers.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the advantages of this Buffalo Chicken Dip recipe is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the entire dip up to a day in advance. Just combine the ingredients and place them in your baking dish, cover, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This makes hosting a breeze, allowing you more time to enjoy with your guests rather than spending it in the kitchen.

If you choose to bake from the fridge, simply add an extra 5-10 minutes to the bake time, as the dip will be cold coming out of the fridge. Make sure to check for bubbling edges and a creamy center before serving to ensure it's heated through to perfection.

Dietary Swaps

For those seeking a healthier version of Buffalo Chicken Dip, consider using Greek yogurt in place of ranch dressing. This swap adds protein and creaminess without the extra calories. Additionally, low-fat cream cheese can be used for a lighter dip, though it may alter the texture slightly, making it less rich and creamy.

If you are looking for a dairy-free option, try using cashew cream or dairy-free cream cheese to maintain that creamy texture while adhering to dietary restrictions. To enhance the flavor profile without cheese, toss in some nutritional yeast for a cheesy essence.

Flavor Variations

Experimenting with flavors can elevate your Buffalo Chicken Dip to new heights. For a smoky twist, add some chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the mix. This not only enhances the spiciness but also introduces a complex depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the cheeses.

Another variation is to incorporate sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or minced garlic into the dip for added flavor and nutrition. This can create a unique, layered taste experience that makes your dip stand out at any gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it right before serving.

→ What can I serve with Buffalo Chicken Dip?

It's great with tortilla chips, celery sticks, carrots, or even sliced baguette.

→ Can I use shredded rotisserie chicken?

Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a convenient option that adds great flavor and saves time.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this dip?

Yes! You can replace chicken with shredded cauliflower or chickpeas for a vegetarian alternative.